Some children and young people in foster care require more than a safe place to stay. They may need extra emotional support, help managing behavioural challenges, or consistent care routines that promote healing and growth. These are children with complex needs—and they deserve a care model that meets them where they are.
The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model offers a unique and tailored approach for supporting children with complex needs. Its relationship-based structure creates the stability, consistency and connection that allows these young people to thrive.
What do we mean by complex needs?
When we talk about children with complex needs, we’re referring to young people who may:
- Have experienced multiple placements or disruptions in care
- Live with the effects of trauma, grief or neglect
- Have developmental delays or additional mental health needs
- Find it difficult to form or maintain relationships due to past experiences
These needs can vary in intensity, but all require thoughtful, compassionate responses. Standard models of care can sometimes struggle to provide this level of ongoing support especially when carers feel under-resourced or isolated.
That’s where the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model comes in.
The strength of consistent relationships
Children with complex needs often struggle with trust and attachment. Forming new bonds—especially with new adults—can take time and sensitivity. The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model supports a close-knit Constellation of carers, where children regularly interact with the same people over time.
This consistency helps build trust. Children begin to recognise not just one safe adult, but many. They learn that people are reliable, that relationships can be positive, and that they won’t be moved from place to place without warning.
Even respite care, which can feel disruptive in other settings, is built on familiar connections. Children stay with someone they know and feel safe with, not a stranger. This reduces anxiety and strengthens the sense of stability they need.
Support for carers of children with complex needs
Caring for a child with complex needs can be rewarding, but also emotionally and physically demanding. In traditional models, carers may feel alone in managing behaviours, navigating school challenges, or responding to emotional outbursts.
The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model offers immediate, ongoing support through the Hub Home carer and the wider Constellation. Whether it’s sharing strategies, accessing respite care, or simply having someone to talk to who understands—the model builds a team around the carer, not just the child.
This support helps carers:
- Avoid burnout and sustain long-term placements
- Feel more confident managing challenging behaviours
- Access training, resources and mentoring as needed
- Know they’re not facing complex needs alone
When carers feel supported, children benefit. The quality and continuity of care improves—and so do outcomes.
A safe space to learn and grow
Children with complex needs may take longer to trust others or settle into routines. They might need additional support at school, in social settings, or when coping with emotions. The Constellation environment allows space for that growth.
Through regular gatherings, shared events, and familiar adult relationships, children can practise social skills, express themselves safely, and build peer friendships. They are surrounded by people who understand their needs and are committed to helping them succeed—without judgement or unrealistic expectations.
This wraparound environment creates:
- A sense of community that builds confidence
- Gentle exposure to group settings and new experiences
- Consistent behavioural boundaries across households
- A strong network of carers and professionals collaborating in the child’s best interest
Flexible and individualised care
No two children are the same, and that’s especially true for those with complex needs. The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model is not one-size-fits-all. It adapts to each child’s care plan and works alongside professionals, including therapists, educators, and case workers.
Whether the goal is stability, reunification with family, or long-term care, the model supports individualised planning within a strong community framework. Carers are included in the process and equipped with the tools they need to advocate for and care for each child in a way that works for them.
“It’s lovely knowing, the young person in our care has regular respite, instead of staying at different respite homes,” says one of our carers.
A model that puts children first
At its core, the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model is about connection. For children with complex needs, that connection is not optional—it’s essential. It’s what helps them build trust, develop resilience, and imagine a future that feels safe and hopeful.
Anglicare Victoria is proud to deliver this model across the state. We believe every child deserves a chance to thrive—and every carer deserves the support to help them get there.
If you’re caring for a child with complex needs—or considering it—we’re here to support you every step of the way. Get in touch on 1800 809 722.
